The Best Tools for Self-Publishing Authors in 2026
There has never been a better time to self-publish — largely because of the incredible tools now available to authors.
Here are some of the most useful platforms and software that can make your publishing journey smoother.
Writing & Editing
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Scrivener — brilliant for organising large projects like books
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Google Docs — easy collaboration with editors
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Grammarly / ProWritingAid — grammar and style support
Formatting
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Vellum (Mac) — popular for beautiful print and eBook formatting
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Atticus — cloud-based alternative that works on all devices
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Microsoft Word + templates — budget-friendly option
If you want a truly professional finish without the tech headaches, hiring a formatter can save hours of frustration.
Cover Design
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Canva Pro — great for simple designs
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BookBrush — mockups and marketing images
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Fiverr / 99designs — freelance designers
Publishing Platforms
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Amazon KDP — easiest way to publish print and eBooks
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IngramSpark — wider bookstore reach
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Draft2Digital — distributes eBooks to multiple retailers
Marketing Tools
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MailerLite — email marketing
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BookFunnel — reader magnets and ARC distribution
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StoryOrigin — newsletter swaps
These tools can make self-publishing faster and more professional — but they still don’t replace the human touch of good editing, design, and formatting.
If you’d rather focus on writing while someone else handles the technical side, that’s exactly where Peak Valley Publishing’s formatting services come in.
